UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak recently spoke to his Indian counterpart, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to discuss a range of bilateral issues – from expediting the process to resolve issues around the ongoing free trade agreement (FTA) negotiations to ensuring tough action against extremist anti-India elements in Britain.
Downing Street said the leaders spoke on April 13 and reflected upon the close friendship between the two countries, agreeing that great progress was being made on the 2030 UK-India Roadmap. A spokesperson noted: “Discussing ongoing negotiations on a UK-India Free Trade Agreement, the leaders reflected on the huge opportunities a deal would offer to Indian and British businesses and consumers.”
In his update on the interaction, Prime Minister Modi tweeted that Sunak agreed on the need to take “strong action against anti-India elements” and to ensure the security of Indian diplomatic establishments in the UK. During the phone call, Sunak and Modi also shared best wishes for Vaisakhi, being celebrated in India and among the diaspora in the UK on April 14.
Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden in Belfast said he was there to “listen” as he had a cup of tea with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. The two world leaders met for around 45 minutes, with Mr Sunak telling broadcasters that the pair spoke about the “incredible economic opportunities” for Northern Ireland.
The Prime Minister described the UK’s relationship with the US as being “in great shape”, describing them as “very close partners and allies”.
The White House said he would use the trip to reaffirm support for the Good Friday Agreement, 25 years after the peace deal was reached, and to encourage the restoration of powersharing – something that collapsed due to the DUP’s protest over post-Brexit rules.
Sunak, smiling, sat at a table with the US president as the pair met over cups of tea.
A major security operation was in place for Biden’s visit, with more than 300 officers from the rest of the UK being drafted into Northern Ireland.
